How to Reset Your Metabolism in 24 Hours

Exercise and dietary "quick fixes" might seem enticing, but in the long-run, they could wreak havoc with your metabolism. Lyn-Genet Recitas, nutritionist and author of The Metabolism Plan, tells MindBodyGreen that there's a lot of misinformation about how to truly boost your metabolism and prepare your body for real, lasting weight loss.

"It works some of the time, or the results are only temporary, and it never gets the full results you deserve," she explains of diet and fitness fads that promise instant results. Instead, she urges her clients to "unlearn everything you have always been told to be true about how to get in shape" and embrace three lifestyle changes that have long-lasting effects.

Follow her top three tips to rev up your metabolism, and get your health back on track today.

Drink Five Pints of Water

According to Recitas, most people are dehydrated. "You need to drink half of your body weight in ounces!" she says. "The easiest way to stay hydrated is to simply drink five pints: Drink a pint when you get up, another at 11 a.m., one at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m., and you are done for the day."

Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods

If you ever feel bloated or gassy after a meal, your body is trying to send you a message. "Skip the calorie counting, and instead eat the foods that make you feel good," she says. Recitas recommends anti-inflammatory foods, which is essential for a functioning metabolism. "Inflammatory foods raise cortisol levels and cause hormonal imbalance and rampant yeast growth, which disrupts thyroid function, your master gland for your metabolism." Tomatoes, spinach, almonds, and strawberries are all anti-inflammatory.